12/23/2024
Bloomington, Illinois EAA Chapter 129 and Pontiac Flying Service have joined forces and will offer Private
Pilot Airplane ground School. Classes will be held every Monday beginning January 13 th through March
3 rd from 6:00pm till 9:00pm in the EAA hangar at the Central Illinois Regional Airport, 2825 E
Empire St, Bloomington, IL 61704. Experienced Certified Flight Instructor Jackson Zimerman will lead
the course. Jackson is a graduate of Southern Illinois University Aviation Flight Program.
This course will cover the many facets of aviation including; aerodynamics, airplane systems, airspace,
meteorology, airplane performance, navigation and much more. This course is designed to prepare you
for the Private Pilot Written Test and introduce you to topics in the Private Pilot Oral and Flight Exam.
During the class you will meet other inspiring pilots and be able to work together to accomplish your
goal.
FAQs
Why take an in-person ground school?
Learning to fly is fun! But you do have to hit the books in order to learn the material that can’t be
covered in the cockpit. While you can certainly take care of your studying on your own, most people
prefer to attend one of our classroom courses. Not only will this ensure you cover all the material, but it
will also provide the structure and organization to get you through the required material in an organized
and timely manner.
How much does it cost?
Cost for this 8-week Private Pilot Ground School is $200 ($170 for current EAA chapter 129 members)
Do I need to purchase any additional equipment or materials?
Most required materials are available free on line. Worksheets and practice charts will be provided. It is
highly recommended that a learner purchases a printed FAR/AIM (≈$20), a navigation plotter (≈$10) and
an analog E6B (≈$15-$50). Electronic E6Bs are available for approximately $100. We will have a limited
supply of each on hand for our first meeting. *Hangar F15 has WIFI Internet. It is also recommended
that a learner bring a laptop or iPad.
Will there be required outside classroom work?
Yes. There is a lot of material to cover. In order to pass the test, it will take an additional 4-5 hours
minimum of study for each session of the course.
Will one on one assistance be available?
Yes. Jackson or another assisting Flight Instructor will make every effort to see that you completely
understand each subject matter in order to pass the FAA written exam.
Where do I take the FAA Private Pilot Written exam? How much does it cost?
The three closest FAA Approved testing facilities are in Champaign, Springfield or Romeoville. Average
cost for taking the FAA written exam is $175 with discounts offered to EAA and AOPA members.
